The Web

Identified risks

  1. Unauthorised external communications
  2. Failure to communicate key information

Recommendations

1. a. Content for upload to website or social media should meet the following criteria:

  • Permission must be secured for use of names, quotes, personal information and photographs of identifiable individuals
  • When content of any kind is sent to the web editor or communications staff by another department with a request it be uploaded to web or social media, the sending department is responsible for ensuring permissions exist
  • When taking photographs or video at events communications staff should make potential subjects aware that photographs/video are being gathered. Anyone who does not want to be photographed or videotaped has the right to opt out.
  • Any photography or videography that includes identifiable children must have explicit permission from each child's parents or guardians
  • Young people over the age of 12 (at minimum) can give permission for photographs, videos or quotes so long as they understand what they are agreeing to and for what purpose the content will be used. If in doubt staff should get permission from a parent or guardian.
  • Permission must be secured from the copyright holder before using copyrighted content.

b. Content for publication to websites or social media should be reviewed by two communications team members whenever practicable.

c. Out-of-hours or when only one team member is available, content may be published to web and social media channels so long as it meets basic standards as delineated in 1a.

d. Devices used to publish Church of Scotland content to website or social media channels must be password protected.

2. a. Critical information should be published on the website and on social media channels as soon as practicable. Example: In a disaster or crisis Churches may act as safe spaces/gathering points for community members.

b. Critical Church of Scotland news and information should be made available to Church members and the public through the website and social media channels as soon as practicable. This may include:

  • Statements from Church of Scotland Councils and office holders
  • Changes to Church of Scotland office holders
  • Critical issues affecting Church of Scotland members.